Abalone is considered an organic gem material, similar to coral. The iridescent color play found in
Abalone is naturally occurring. The Abalone is a mollusk that can be found throughout the world in warm oceans, including
the United States along coastal California. The Abalone is unmistakable. The shell is rounded to oval, and has a body whorl
with a series of holes along the edge.
The Aragonite (calcium carbonate) tiles which make up the structure of the Abalone shell, are stacked like
bricks, which give the Abalone shell its great strength. When the shell is struck, the tiles do not shatter. Instead they
slide and the protein between the layers stretch to absorb the energy of the blow. The dust created through the grinding and
cutting of abalone shell is toxic and carvers and cutters must be careful so as to not inhale the fine dust particles.
It is also known by the name Sea Opal, due to the iridescent blues and greens that are produced when polished, which
is similar to the color play of an Opal.
It is often used in jewelry, commonly seen as pendants or earrings. In New Zealand the native New Zealanders
call their Abalone by the Maori name, Paua. The Maori people of New Zealand have been carving these shells into beautiful
creations for many centuries.
Item# JRAB001
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Nice irridescent blue, green and pink colors flash across this oval 10x12 cabochon mounted in a serrated bezel and set
upon a hammered sterling silver band. One of my most popular rings!!!!!
$15.00 each
Size 6½
Item# JRAB002
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Cute little ring with a beautiful 8x10 iridescent abalone cab mounted on a size 7 half-round off-centered shank.
